University of Louisiana at Monroe officials honored faculty members on Wednesday for their service at the 11th annual Employee Recognition Ceremony and luncheon.

The ceremony was created to acknowledge those employed by the university for five years or more as of December 31.

The program began in 2003 under then-Vice President for Business Affairs, Dr. Nick J. Bruno. Now, as ULM president, Bruno has continued this tradition of honoring employees for their dedication.

Faculty members earning five, 10, or 15 years of service received a service pin and a service certificate. Those members with 20 years received a 20-year service pin and plaque. For 25 years, faculty members received a service pin and custom watch.

Faculty members with 30 years received a service pin and rosewood engraved desk clock, and those with 40 years got a service pin and a ULM framed print.

Bruno also presented Foundation Awards to four faculty members who exemplify excellence in their field. These faculty members were awarded for excellence in teaching, excellence in research, excellence in service, and excellence in creative/artistic activity.

The award for Excellence in Research went to Dr. Khalid El Sayed, professor of medicinal and natural products chemistry in the School of Pharmacy. In his 13 years at ULM he has acquired research grants totaling over $1.6 million, and has participated in joint collaborations and studies that have resulted in more than 100 publications, seven patents, five book chapters, and 150 research abstracts.

Dr. Deborah Chandler, associate professor and director of Choral Activities, won the award for Excellence in Creative/Artistic Activity. Noted as the backbone of the vocal music program at ULM, Chandler is in constant demand as a guest conductor and clinician, and is known for her ability to attract the most talented students to the ULM Choral Program.

The award for Excellence in Service was given to Dr. Kim Marie Tolson, professor of biology, and coordinator of graduate services for the College of Arts, Education, and Sciences. Tolson is known as a community educator who is heavily involved in not only professional biology organizations, but in community organizations which enlighten and enhance the region’s foothold in the biology community.

The Excellence in Teaching award winner, Dr. Joshua Stockley, associate professor of political science and director of the ULM Honors Program, has been called a marvel in the classroom who utilizes teaching techniques that require critical thinking and push for student engagement. Stockley is willing to take chances and incorporate new media into lectures to improve the experience of his students, as technology continually becomes a major player in how our society operates.